Giulia is originally from Italy and moved to the UK earlier this month to join the Koutsikou lab and start her PhD in Neuroscience. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, both from the University of Milan. She has also spent two years working as a junior researcher within the field of Psychopharmacology, investigating the molecular mechanisms of addiction. This research experience has equipped Giulia with an excellent publication record and key laboratory skills.
Giulia’s PhD project is funded by the University of Kent and focuses on the Xenopus laevis tadpole’s hindbrain as a strategic hub for decision making processes, which drive swim behaviour and ensure the animal’s survival. Whole-cell electrophysiological recordings and Ca2+ imaging will be the main techniques used in Giulia’s project, which is co-supervised by Dr Wenchang Li (University of St. Andrews).
Giulia has thoroughly enjoyed her first couple of weeks in our lab, and has said: “I look forward to seeing where this new scientific adventure will take me!”.
Outside of the lab, Giulia is a qualified swimming instructor and enjoys experimenting with Italian cooking.